Farmers vs Safeco: Which company is best for you?
Farmers and Safeco each provide many different types of insurance coverage sufficient for the needs of most customers. However, each company has its strengths and weaknesses. To aid in your search for a new insurance policy, see how these two insurers compare in our in-depth comparison.
Farmers car insurance
Farmers customers can expect a variety of discount options and a wide selection of highly-customizable coverages. In general, they receive fewer customer complaints than average but customer satisfaction may suffer overall. Farmers also allows customers to combine car insurance with homeowners, renters and life insurance policies, which adds convenience and may lead to savings.
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Safeco car insurance
Safeco Insurance is a popular choice for many car insurance shoppers. As a subsidiary of Liberty Mutual, Safeco customers can enjoy a wide array of policy options and coverage levels. There are also many additional lines of insurance that may be bundled with auto policies, potentially allowing customers to streamline their insurance needs and even save money. Find out more about Safeco Insurance below.
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Which company comes out on top?
Farmers
Farmers' highly customizable coverage options and discount opportunities make it our top choice over Safeco. Farmers receives fewer than the average number of complaints according to the NAIC, while Safeco receives more. Still, customers may find that Safeco policies are more budget-friendly, so the company should not be counted out of your insurance search.
Farmers vs. Safeco:Â car insurance rate comparison
In an effort to simplify the insurance-shopping process, we've collected average insurance rates from Safeco and Farmers. These take into account a number of rating factors, including credit, driving history, and age. Check out the below rates and find an affordable policy today.
Farmers is the cheapest option in most scenarios. However, your unique driving profile could be a better match for one company over another in some situations. Our advice is to get quotes from each company to see which better fits your budget.
Farmers vs. Safeco: pricing by credit score
If you have very poor credit, Farmers could be a better option for you. On average, Farmers offers lower rates than Safeco for drivers with credit scores of 579 or less. Those with exceptional credit — a score of 800-plus — should consider Farmers, which typically beats Safeco by $301 annually. View common insurance rates by credit level for Safeco and Farmers.
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CREDIT SCORE INSURANCE RATE COMPARISON: SAFECO VS. FARMERS
| Credit level | Farmers avg. annual premium | Safeco avg. annual premium |
| Very Poor (300-579) | $2,633 | $5,308 |
| Fair (580-669) | $1,736 | $2,716 |
| Good (670-739) | $1,882 | $1,967 |
| Very Good (740-799) | $1,453 | $1,871 |
| Exceptional (800-850) | $1,354 | $1,655 |
The Zebra’s auto insurance data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
Farmers vs. Safeco: rates for high-risk drivers
If you are saddled with an at-fault collision or ticket, Farmers could be a better choice than Safeco. However, those with a reckless driving violation or DUI in your rearview mirror should look to Safeco. Every car insurance company has different post-violation pricing structures, so don't be afraid to shop around to figure out which insurance company suits you.
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RATES BY VIOLATION: SAFECO VS. FARMERS
| Citation | Farmers avg. annual premium | Safeco avg. annual premium |
| At-fault accident (damage < $1,000) | $2,334 | $2,546 |
| At-fault accident (damage > $1,000) | $1,699 | $1,969 |
| DUI/DWI | $3,239 | $2,796 |
| Reckless driving | $4,636 | $2,853 |
| Speeding ticket | $2,045 | $2,512 |
Farmers vs. Safeco: rates by age bracket
Auto insurance companies rely on a driver's age to outline risk potential, assigning rates accordingly. A car insurance policy is typically expensive for drivers younger than 25 — due to their inexperience — and more affordable for older drivers. Because every auto insurance company rates age brackets uniquely, it's worth shopping around and finding the best rate for you.
As a general rule, teen drivers should choose Farmers over Safeco: the former's average annual rates are $1,247 less.
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COMPARING AUTO INSURANCE RATES BY AGE: SAFECO VS. FARMERS
| Age | Farmers avg. annual premium | Safeco avg. annual premium |
| Teens | $6,518 | $7,765 |
| 20s | $2,020 | $2,566 |
| 30s | $2,020 | $2,566 |
| 40s | $1,511 | $2,128 |
| 50s | $1,507 | $1,745 |
| 60s | $1,402 | $1,687 |
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Affordability aside, Farmers and Safeco each have pros and cons, including their discounts, perks, customer satisfaction ratings, and financial stability. Be sure to shop around before settling on an option.
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Ratings comparison: Farmers vs. Safeco
When comparing car insurance companies, don't just look at rates. You'll want a carrier with a good reputation for customer service that handles claims fairly and efficiently. To aid in your search, we've put together ratings from many trusted third-party sources to help you get a better sense of how customers view both Farmers and Safeco.
| Ratings comparison | Farmers | Safeco |
|---|---|---|
| Financial strength (A.M. Best) | Excellent | Excellent |
| JD Power (claims satisfaction) | Excellent | Average |
| JD Power (customer satisfaction) | Below Average | Average |
| NAIC rating | Good | Poor |
| The Zebra's editorial review score | 4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey | 4.3/5 | N/A |
Which company scores best?
Farmers
While the two companies are reasonably close in many ratings, Farmers has a better rating overall.
The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey
To get a better sense of how customers viewed the level of service they received from their insurance companies, The Zebra conducted a survey covering a wide range of topics. Safeco did not meet the criteria to be included in this survey, but you can see how customers viewed their experiences with Farmers below.
Farmers consistently ranked near the lower third of companies included in our survey. However, the company ranked 6th overall for claims satisfaction, indicating that customers are happy overall with the process. Among respondents, Farmers did best among younger drivers.
- Farmers auto insurance placed 10th overall
- Millennial and Gen X respondents rated Farmers higher overall
- Scored highest for claims satisfaction
The Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey methodology
Methodology:
These results are based on a survey of 2,722 U.S. insurance policyholders assessing satisfaction with their car and homeowners insurance providers. The survey was conducted using Survey Monkey and designed by our in-house team. It aimed to collect detailed insights from a census-balanced sample reflecting age, gender, and region.
Questionnaire
The questionnaire included demographic questions about age and gender identification and detailed inquiries into insurance experiences. Key topics:
- Duration with insurance provider and coverage specifics, including teen drivers.
- Claim filing experiences and satisfaction with claims handling.
- Customer service interactions, trust in providers, and likelihood of recommending their insurance.
- Use and satisfaction with digital tools and usage-based insurance programs.
Respondents rated their satisfaction on a Likert scale from 1 to 10 and provided qualitative feedback.
Data Analysis
Data were analyzed focusing on descriptive and inferential statistics to identify satisfaction trends and demographic impacts. Data cleaning and weighting were applied to ensure accuracy, alongside strict confidentiality protocols to protect data security.
Farmers vs. Safeco: discount comparison
If you are looking to save money on your premiums, it's important to consider each insurer's auto insurance discount selection. Compare discount options from Farmers and Safeco below.
Telematics options: Farmers vs. Safeco
Telematics programs offer drivers the chance to get more accurate risk assessments, and potentially cheaper rates, by having their driving habits tracked by their insurer. Both Farmers and Safeco offer telematics options, which you can compare below.
Signal is the telematics option from Farmers. The company advertises a 5% discount for signing up, with the promise of up to 15% savings for qualifying drivers. The company also offers an additional 10% savings for drivers under the age of 25 who enroll.Â
Unique amongst telematics programs, drivers enrolled in Farmers Signal — with a driving score of at least 80% — are also eligible to win up to $100 in rewards every month. Signal is not available in every state, and further restrictions may be imposed depending on where you live.Â
Safeco RightTrack® allows customers to choose either a plug-in device or an app to monitor your driving for 90 days. The company claims that safe drivers may be eligible for savings between 5 and 30%, though no savings are guaranteed.
Zebra tip: Explore Farmers for telematics offerings
Farmers' higher possible discount and additional reward for good driving helps this telematics program stand out from competitors. Good drivers should consider Farmers' app when selecting telematics options.Â
Roadside assistance: Farmers vs. Safeco
Those who find themselves on the side of the road after a breakdown quickly realize the importance of roadside assistance programs. Take a look at the different options provided by Farmers and Safeco below.
Farmers
To contact Farmers Roadside Service, call 1-800-435-7764. Farmers covers up to $150 per incident (with special limits in North Carolina, Texas and Virginia) for the following services:
- Towing
- Battery jump start
- Flat-tire change
- Winching services
- Lock-out services
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Safeco
Safeco offers and optional roadside assistance package that is on par with most other major carriers. Roadside assistance can be requested through the company's mobile app or by calling 1-877-762-3101. Drivers who choose to add roadside assistance from Safeco can expect the following services:
- Towing
- Battery jump start
- Fuel and fluids
- Flat-tire change
- Lock-out services
Farmers vs. Safeco: home insurance
Both Farmers and Safeco offer homeowners coverage options. These can be purchased as individual policies or bundled together with auto or other coverage types. Most customers will likely find each company's coverage options suitable for most needs. Compare ratings for each company below.
Farmers homeowners insurance review
Because of its robust policy options and reasonable rates, Farmers remains a popular option for homeowners insurance. The company earned roughly average reviews from various third-party reviewers and consumers and placed 7th overall for homeowners insurance in The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey.
- The Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey — 4.3/5: Farmers placed 7th overall in The Zebra's homeowners insurance customer survey.Â
- Claims satisfaction (J.D. Power) — Average: J.D. Power's property claims satisfaction study for 2021 gave Farmers an average score of 884 out of 1,000.
- Customer satisfaction — (J.D. Power) — Average: Farmers earned an average score in J.D. Power's study of customer satisfaction.Â
- Financial strength — Excellent: AM Best rates Farmers highly, meaning the company is in good financial shape.
- NAIC Rating — Good: Farmers received fewer complaints than did other major homeowners insurance companies.
Safeco homeowners review
In general, Safeco provides good homeowners insurance coverage at relatively affordable rates. The company offers all of the basic coverage types one would expect, plus additional options for valuable items and equipment breakdowns. The company tends to be among the cheapest home insurance providers, which could certainly be appealing for some. However, customer satisfaction scores remain below average, meaning that customers looking for a high level of service may be disappointed.
- The Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey — N/A: Safeco was not included in The Zebra's homeowners insurance customer survey.Â
- Customer satisfaction (J.D. Power) — Average: Safeco customers expressed average levels of satisfaction, according to J.D. Power's 2021 study.Â
- Financial strength — Excellent: Safeco's excellent financial strength — tracked by AM Best — indicates a strong ability to pay out claims.
- NAIC rating — Poor: The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) received more complaints than average regarding Safeco in 2019.
Which company comes out on top?
Farmers
Farmers outranks Safeco in all categories, recieving fewer customer complaints and a higher JD Power score. Still, we suggest getting quotes from a number of homeowners insurance companies to find suitable coverage at a rate you can afford.
Farmers vs. Safeco: home insurance rate comparison
Homeowners insurance rates can vary widely depending on the location of the home, the claims history of the homeowner and the insurer. Farmers' average yearly home insurance rate is $1,455, coming out to roughly $121 per month. Safeco is marginally cheaper at $108 per month.
Remember that while cost is an important factor when shopping for homeowners insurance, it's most important to have the right policy from a trustworthy insurer.Â
Both companies provide affordable coverage, with Safeco coming in slightly cheaper on average at $108 per month.
The Zebra’s homeowners insurance data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
Farmers vs. Safeco: homeowners discount comparison
As with car insurance, home insurance discounts can be a great way for eligible policyholders to enjoy additional savings. While both Farmers and Safeco offer homeowners discounts, neither are particularly wide-ranging. Still, as the companies tend to have more affordable rates in general, this may be less of a drawback than with other insurers. See how these discounts compare below.
| Discount comparison | Farmers | Safeco |
|---|---|---|
| Claims free | ✓ | |
| Recent home buyer | ||
| Multi-policy | ✓ | ✓ |
| Newer/more durable roof | ✓ | |
| Protective devices (smoke/burglar alarms, etc...) | ✓ | |
| Paid in full | ✓ | |
| Auto pay | ✓ | |
| New home construction | ✓ | |
| Gated community | ||
| Home renovation | ||
| Smart home |
Other insurance products and bundling options
Farmers and Safeco each provide a number of additional insurance lines that customers may couple with their home or auto policies. Bundling such policies can be a great way to streamline your insurance policies and possibly find savings. Have a look at the extra insurance lines provided by each company below.
| Other products | Farmers | Safeco |
|---|---|---|
| Boat insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Condo insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Life insurance | ✓ | |
| Homeowners insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Travel trailer insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Renters insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| RV insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Motorcycle insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mobile home insurance | ✓ | |
| Umbrella | ✓ | ✓ |
| ATV insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pet insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Commercial insurance | ✓ |
Safeco also offers identity theft protection. Farmers is also a major carrier for many types of commercial insurance, including for both automobiles and small businesses. For those who use their vehicles for commercial purposes (delivery or rideshare drivers), this could make them a better option.Â
Find the best insurance policy for your needs.
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About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.